Del Shows He’s an Engaging, Skillful Rapper

Del the Funky Homosapien may not have a video on regular rotation on MTV or a song that’s on radio stations across the country, but the Oakland rapper has established himself as one of hip-hop’s underground favorites. Although he first appeared on his cousin Ice Cube’s incendiary “AmeriKKKa’s Most Wanted” album, Del prefers the everyman approach. The lanky artist can rap skillfully about everything from body odor and video games to freeloaders and his own lyrical prowess, a skill that was on full display Sunday at the House of Blues.

During his engaging 50-minute set, Del scampered across the stage with only a supporting rapper and a DJ backing him as he revisited some of the highlights from his decade-long recording career. He delivered animated renditions of such hits as “Dr. Bombay” and “No Need for Alarm” and encouraged his listeners to be true to themselves as his trademark nose ring and lip ring glistened under the lights.

Although he’s a magnetic personality, Del could have used some sort of theatrics to put his high-energy show over the top. When he paused to sip from one of his various beverages, there was little else to focus on. Fortunately, his drink breaks were only temporary speed bumps in what was otherwise a satisfying performance.